
Poached eggs have a reputation for being fussy, but once you nail the technique, they become one of the most satisfying things you can make in under ten minutes. The splash of white wine vinegar in the simmering water is the real secret here — it encourages the whites to pull together quickly and wrap snugly around the yolk instead of spreading into wispy threads. Creating a gentle vortex before sliding each egg in takes that a step further, giving you that classic, tidy oval shape every time. The result is a silky, cloud-like white with a warm, runny center that breaks open beautifully over toast, greens, or whatever you have on hand. With just eggs, vinegar, salt, and pepper, there's nothing hidden in this recipe — no sauces, no coatings, no pantry items that could introduce unexpected allergens. It's the kind of foundational recipe that earns a permanent spot in your weekly rotation.
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Fill a medium saucepan with about 3 inches of water and add the white wine vinegar. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat — small bubbles should rise steadily from the bottom but the surface should not be at a rolling boil.
Crack each egg into its own small ramekin or cup, taking care not to break the yolk.
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